Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.69589/hsv.40.2.6
COMPARATIVE DYNAMICS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN CHILDREN AGED 11–13: WEEKDAYS VS WEEKENDS
Oleg Hristov
; Department “Center for scientific and applied research in sports“, National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia
Milena Zdravcheva
; Department “Center for scientific and applied research in sports“, National Sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia
Petar Peev
; Department of “Athletics and conditional training, National sports Academy “Vassil Levski”, Sofia, Bulgaria
Abstract
Introduction: Physical activity is essential for children’s health and quality of life. However, less than 20% of children worldwide meet the WHO’s physical activity recommendations, and activity levels often decrease during weekends. In Bulgaria, students are generally inactive during the school week and spend weekends in sedentary screen-related behaviors. This study aims to assess the duration and type of physical activity among Bulgarian students aged 10 to 13, with a focus on differences between weekdays and weekends. Methods: The study involved 387 students (221 girls, 166 boys) from grades 5 to 7. Physical activity was measured using Axivity AX3 motion sensors worn continuously for 7 consecutive days. Data were excluded if wear time was less than 6 hours per day. Parents also provided information regarding their children’s extracurricular activities. Results and discussion: Fifth-grade students exhibited slightly more sedentary behavior on weekends compared to weekdays, although the difference was not statistically significant. In contrast, sixth- and seventh-grade students showed a marked increase in sedentary time on weekends, especially boys, who spent up to 60.5 minutes more sitting. Highintensity physical activity declined significantly across all grades during weekends. Conclusion: As children age, their overall physical activity decreases—most noticeably on weekends and among boys. To counter this trend, it is essential to implement school-based initiatives, promote active breaks, and launch educational campaigns targeting families and communities.
Keywords
age groups, movement intensity, physical activity, school environment, students
Hrčak ID:
340607
URI
Publication date:
9.12.2025.
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